New housing rules prohibit developers from combining them with 'utility platforms' in the same residential unit
Homebuyers will see the size of balconies in new residential developments cut by as much as 40 per cent as the government prohibits developers from combining the recently introduced 'utility platform' with a balcony.
The Buildings Department defines a 'utility platform', first introduced five years ago, as a 'a well-ventilated space open on at least two sides, or one long side if the platform is combined with an air conditioning platform for the same residential unit.'
But last week, the Lands Department, the Buildings Department and the Planning Department revised the 2001 Joint Practice Note on Green and Innovative Buildings.
Under the new rules, the utility platform cannot be combined with any balcony in the same flat.
The amendment will apply to all new building plans submitted for approval on or after May 1.